Huge surf is pounding much of the California coast and beachgoers are warned of dangerous waves, rip currents and possibly some minor flooding.

The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory for stretches of central and Southern California until late Wednesday.

Waves along the Central Coast could hit 18 feet, while sets topping 12 feet are expected in Los Angeles and Orange counties.

The cause is a large swell generated by a storm off Northern California.

Meanwhile Southern California's winter heat wave continues. Forecasters say temperatures could hit the 80s across greater Los Angeles.